All NPCs are played by storytellers or have storyteller oversight.

In an effort to reconcile differences between Vampire, Mage, and Werewolf when it comes to retainers and kinfolk backgrounds, we have come up with a system that we feel is a workable compromise.

Each retainer/kinfolk is purchased separately and can have a rating from 1-5. Retainers/kinfolk will have proper stats – Attributes 7/5/3 (1 starting dot in each), Abilities 13/9/5, Virtues 10, Willpower 3. The number of freebie points spent is based on the point value of the retainer (see chart). Retainers/kinfolk may not have 5s in Attributes or Abilities.

Power levels are generally fairly low. Higher powered NPCs should be converted to Allies, Mentors, or another appropriate background trait. Each of the following traits count as 1 power:

• Gnosis, up to 3
• Gift, Level 1
• Numina, 1 dot
• Discipline, 1 dot

Players who want full supers (vampire, mage, shifter, etc.) should purchase them as Allies or Mentors. Point value of full super allies or mentors is case by case at staff discretion.

Retainers/kinfolk can be purchased after CharGen for XP at the cost of 2 XP for the first dot, then current value for each additional dot. Retainers/kinfolk can also be improved after CharGen with IC justification at the cost of current value in XP for each additional dot. Players who have regular mortal Retainers should ignore the Max # of Powers column.

The Retainer/Kinfolk background trait should always represent the actual number of Retainers/Kinfolk. Point value and stats will be judgenoted on your character. If you are purchasing a Retainer/Kinfolk with a Rating greater than 1 at CharGen, work with staff to make sure you leave the required freebie points unspent.

Retainer/Kinfolk Rating	Max Freebies	Max Dice Pool	Max # of Powers	Cost at CharGen (Total) (1pt per dot)	Cost After Chargen (Total) (2 XP for 1st, then current value)
1	15	6	1	1 Freebie	2 XP
2	20	7	1	2 Freebies	3 XP
3	25	7	2	3 Freebies	5 XP
4	30	8	2	4 Freebies	8 XP
5	35	8	3	5 Freebies	12 XP